What To Know
- Based on the rotating development model, it is likely that Sledgehammer Games will continue to make Call of Duty games in the future.
- While Activision has not officially announced Sledgehammer’s next project, it is reasonable to expect that the studio is working on a new Call of Duty installment.
- While the future of Sledgehammer Games’ involvement in Call of Duty remains uncertain, it is clear that the studio has made a lasting impact on the franchise.
The Call of Duty franchise has been a staple in the gaming industry for over two decades, with countless installments and spin-offs. Among the developers who have contributed to the series’ success is Sledgehammer Games, responsible for several notable titles. With the recent release of Call of Duty: Vanguard, speculation has arisen regarding Sledgehammer’s continued involvement in the franchise. This blog post aims to shed light on the question: “Is Sledgehammer still making Call of Duty?”
A Brief History of Sledgehammer Games and Call of Duty
Sledgehammer Games was founded in 2009 by Michael Condrey and Glen Schofield, both former employees of Electronic Arts. The studio quickly established a partnership with Activision, the publisher of the Call of Duty franchise. Sledgehammer’s first major contribution to the series was Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, which they co-developed with Infinity Ward.
In 2014, Sledgehammer took on the lead development role for Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, which introduced futuristic elements and exoskeleton suits to the gameplay. The game received mixed reviews but was a commercial success.
Sledgehammer’s Recent Projects and Future Involvement
After Advanced Warfare, Sledgehammer returned to a more traditional Call of Duty experience with Call of Duty: WWII in 2017. The game was praised for its historical setting and immersive gameplay, becoming one of the best-selling installments in the series.
In 2021, Sledgehammer released Call of Duty: Vanguard, which took players back to the Eastern Front of World War II. Vanguard received mixed reviews, with some praising its campaign and others criticizing its multiplayer.
Regarding Sledgehammer’s future involvement in Call of Duty, Activision has not officially confirmed anything. However, rumors and leaks suggest that the studio is currently working on a new Call of Duty game scheduled for release in 2024.
The Rotating Development Model
Activision has adopted a rotating development model for the Call of Duty franchise. This means that different studios take turns leading the development of each new installment. The current rotation includes Infinity Ward, Treyarch, and Sledgehammer Games.
Under this model, each studio has a three-year cycle to develop a new Call of Duty game. This allows them time to create high-quality experiences and implement innovative features.
The Future of Sledgehammer Games
Based on the rotating development model, it is likely that Sledgehammer Games will continue to make Call of Duty games in the future. The studio has a proven track record of success with the franchise and is well-respected within the gaming community.
While Activision has not officially announced Sledgehammer‘s next project, it is reasonable to expect that the studio is working on a new Call of Duty installment. Rumors suggest that this game could be set in a modern or near-future setting, potentially featuring a return to the Modern Warfare universe.
Impact of Sledgehammer’s Departure on the Franchise
If Sledgehammer were to depart from the Call of Duty franchise, it would undoubtedly have a significant impact. The studio has played a vital role in the series’ success over the past decade. Their departure would leave a void that would need to be filled by other developers.
However, it is important to note that Activision has a deep bench of talented studios under its umbrella. Infinity Ward and Treyarch have both created exceptional Call of Duty games in the past, and they are likely capable of carrying the franchise forward without Sledgehammer.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy Continues
While the future of Sledgehammer Games’ involvement in Call of Duty remains uncertain, it is clear that the studio has made a lasting impact on the franchise. Their games have been some of the most successful and critically acclaimed installments in the series.
Whether Sledgehammer continues to make Call of Duty games or not, their legacy will endure. They have helped to shape the franchise into what it is today, and their contributions will continue to be appreciated by fans for years to come.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Is Sledgehammer Games still making Call of Duty?
A: Activision has not officially confirmed anything, but rumors suggest that Sledgehammer is working on a new Call of Duty game scheduled for release in 2024.
Q: What was Sledgehammer’s first major contribution to the Call of Duty franchise?
A: Sledgehammer co-developed Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 with Infinity Ward.
Q: What is the rotating development model for Call of Duty?
A: Activision has adopted a rotating development model, where different studios take turns leading the development of each new installment. The current rotation includes Infinity Ward, Treyarch, and Sledgehammer Games.
Q: What impact would Sledgehammer’s departure from the Call of Duty franchise have?
A: Sledgehammer’s departure would have a significant impact on the franchise, as they have played a vital role in its success over the past decade. However, Activision has a deep bench of talented studios that could potentially fill the void.
Q: What is Sledgehammer Games‘ most successful Call of Duty game?
A: Call of Duty: WWII is Sledgehammer’s most successful Call of Duty game, becoming one of the best-selling installments in the series.
